Ramiro Burr's New Blog - to go back: www.ramiroburr.com

Actress/singer Aracely Arambula back on TV

2008-07-23T06:58:51Z

Coming up:
Mariachi Campanas, Chakare among artists at Gonzalez fundraiser
Crooked Stilo offers new CD early on Amazon.com
La Mafia vs Kumbia All Starz in 'mano a mano'
Reggaeton shows coming up

First, the relentless rumor mill ran whispers that Mexican actress Aracely Arambula had separated from her beloved Luismi - singer Luis Miguel.

Official word on that is still out.

However, now comes the news that Arambula is returning to TVLand

Yes, that's true. A lifetime ago - about two years ago - Arambula was a hottie and regular fixture on TV.

According to this report in Miguelrosario.com, Arambula is launching her own TV show titled "¡Viva la Familia! de Todobebé," on July 25 on the Univision Network.

The report goes on to detail: "¡Viva la Familia! de Todobebé" ofrecerá a la teleaudiencia entretenimiento, humor, información y diversión de primera calidad.

"A su lado, en calidad de co-presentadora, estará la fundadora y editora de Todobebé, la periodista chilena y experta en temas de crianza, Jeannette Kaplun.

"Arámbula hará su primera aparición en el lanzamiento del show tras darse la noticia de que ella y Luis Miguel esperan a su segundo hijo.

"El estreno de "¡Viva la Familia! de Todobebé" contará con la participación luminarias como Jorge Ramos, Los Tigres del Norte, El Piolín y Angélica Vale, quienes apadrinan el programa.

"Entre los reconocidos padres de familia que participan en diferentes segmentos se incluyen Ana Bárbara, Salma Hayek, Alex Rodríguez, Don Francisco, Lupillo Rivera, Juanes y Angélica María, entre otros.

"El gran estreno de "¡Viva la Familia! de Todobebé" es el 25 de julio a las 10/9 pm centro, y a partir del sábado 26 de julio el show se empezará a emitir los sábados a las 12 /11 am centro."

Related stories, photos:
SA's metal group Brotherhood - chance to play Ozzfest 2008
Radio y Notas Convention examines elements of a hit song
Concerts Calendar 7/22: Flex, Despos, Latin Legends
Premios Juventud top winners: Martin, Camila, Aventura
De La Rosa All-Star tribute CD in final mixing stages
Jenni Rivera faces lawsuit in stage assault
Concerts Calendar 7/15: Hispanic Fair, Tejano soul, disco
In frank interview, A.B. Quintanilla III says he's a nice guy
Enrique Iglesias & Aventura tour to hit S.A., Laredo, McAllen
Pee Wee to perform at Premios Juventud
Weekender: Classy Tejano, cumbias and more
Los Cardenales: name chosen long ago, new CD
Concerts Calendar 7/8: Liberty B, 5-Star, DLG, Palominos

SA's metal group Brotherhood - chance to play Ozzfest 2008

2008-07-22T17:20:38Z

Coming up:
Mariachi Campanas, Chakare among artists at Gonzalez fundraiser
Crooked Stilo offers new CD early on Amazon.com
La Mafia vs Kumbia All Starz in 'mano a mano'
Reggaeton shows coming up

Brotherhood, a local heavy metal band, is up for an opportunity to play Ozzfest this year.

The group is an intense metal-core act from San Antonio and their influences include Hatebreed, Shadows Fall, Chimaira and Pantera.

Their resume includes playing with such groups as Earth Crisis, Despised Icon, Job For a Cowboy, and Suicide Silence.

Brotherhood was recently featured in the Raw Talent section of the April 2005 issue of Revolver. The band has also secured a Sam Ash music store sponsorship. They were also profiled in the recent issue of The Edge and the Current.

The band - Rod, Mikey, Alex, Dave, Brent - needs their fans' help by visiting the group's www.myspace.com/brotherhood and voting online to have the band play at Ozzfest 2008.

According to Rod's father Rod Nichols Sr., who used to play in several San Antonio bands himself, the band is excited about the opportunity.

"They are a metal band, very strong stage presence and do mainly their own material. I don't pretend to know much about this style of music, but I've been to some of their shows and they are impressive and strong. They have a strong underground following and have been together for years."

More details: www.myspace.com/brotherhood

Radio y Notas Convention examines elements of a hit song

2008-07-22T16:48:05Z

Coming up:
SA's metal group Brotherhood - chance to play Ozzfest 2008
Crooked Stilo offers new CD early on Amazon.com
La Mafia vs Kumbia All Starz in 'mano a mano'
Reggaeton shows coming up

The 2008 Radio y Notas Convention in Los Angeles got off to a rousing start Monday with a panel that judged brand new songs by various composers.

The judges included Nelson Mendoza (Fonovisa), Ivonne Gómez (Directora creative en México y Estados Unidos), Adolfo y Omar Valenzuela (Twiins Records), Homero Campos (Founder Zeta Network), Homero Patrón (Producer,composer) y Bruno Danza (artists, producer, director).

According to this RyN report, the judges heard 11 tunes and each explained their take onit.

"Nuestros expertos coincidieron que para que una canción sea programada y escuchada en la radio tiene que tener una letra fácil de recordar, que entre a la memoria del radioescucha, tiene que tener un tema bien definido y una melodía que es la que más se le pega a la gente.

"En la actualidad los artistas están en búsqueda de cosas nuevas e innovadoras, algo que no sea conocido. El consejo de los ponentes para los compositores fue: "No se enamoren de lo que hacen, escuchen como lo escucha la gente, con oídos del público. Todo es tiempo, hay cosas que no se pueden apresurar."

For the rest of the details: RyN report

Concerts Calendar 7/22: Flex, Despos, Latin Legends

2008-07-22T03:30:16Z

Coming up:
Crooked Stilo offers new CD early on Amazon.com
La Mafia vs Kumbia All Starz in 'mano a mano'
Reggaeton shows coming up

Panamian Latin pop, conjunto, Tejano and more are among the choices for the weekend.

Final Cut

Final Cut Top versatile band blends oldies, funk, disco, Top 40 and more. Cadillac Bar, 212 S. Flores. Friday, July 25. No cover. Rest of August live music schedule: 8/1, Jesse Deleon/Variety Band; 8/8 Xtremo 4; 8/15, Artie v Y Grupo Suave; 8/22, Pete Ybarra y Fuego; 8/28, Artie V Y Suave, Cadillac Anniversary; 8/29 Red Suace Rules. On this date, there is also a concert outdoors with Mohagany Rush www.myspace.com/cadillacbar

Jorge Alejandro y La Paz Top notch variety band plays funk, oldies, Tex-Mex and more. Thursdsay. George's Place, 5214 Blanco Rd. (210) 340-1275. Also George's All Star Band 9 p.m. Sunday. Also George Rivas' birthday will be celebarated July 30, a Wednesday with Joe Posada. Ruben Ramos CD release party slated first week in August.

Roger Velasquez & Latin Legends

Roger Velasquez & Latin Legends Tight group offers a wide array of funk, oldies, Tex-Mex and more. Band is also celebrating drummer Richard Solis' birthday that day. Luckey Road Saloon.Band also plays Thursdays at Bar on Broadway, 2411 Broadway. Also 8/9, Texas Star Freeport.

Louis Shati Orchestra Solid Latin, salsa, Tex-Mex band whips up an alluring mixture of dance music. 9:30 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. Arjon's International Club. Shati busy working on his next CD due by mid-Sept.

Desperados Neo-trad conjunto group brings it on. Friday. Graham Central Station. Also Aug 1. Bobby Pulido

Flex Red-hot Panamanian singer Flex checks in at Club Rio on Friday, July 25. The 27-year-old is red-hot with his CD "Te Quiero" (EMI) which was recently at the top of the charts on Billboard's Latin music chart. He calls his style of music "romantic reggaeton." If you haven't heard of Flex you will soon. (210) 403-2582

Oscar Cruz y Escape Winsome band mixes cumbias, merengues, disco, oldies, Tex-Mex. Led by the talented singer/keyboardist Oscar Cruz, the band also includes Alvaro Mendoza, vocals/percussion; Bert Ybarra, guitars; Abraham Humpries, bass; and Joe Gonzalez, drums. Chango's Havana Club, 23535 IH 10 West & Leon Springs Exit. 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 23. www.oscarcruzandescape.com

Blue Bubble Ballroom Swing time with a variety of regional bands each Sunday at 6 p.m. as part of the "Swing Factory" Sunday dance/concert series at Blue Bubble Ballroom, 9315 Broadway (just outside the loop). Cover: $5. All ages. 7-8 p.m. complimentary beginner swing Lessons by SASDS. Also, July 27, Band TBA. Also July 25: Remember This, Gagasdan, Dark Water, Mind Frame

Ruben Ramos & Mexican Revolution Austin band headlines "Primetime Tejano Music fest" featuring Gary Hobbs,Tex-Maniacs, Los Gallos, Los Texas Wranglers with special guest Augustin Ramirez. Fiesta Gardens, Austin. 2-10 p.m. Sunday, July 27. $5 Details call (512) 845-3136

Los Tovares Solid Tejano band headlines Lucky Roads, Lytle, Texas. Friday, July 25.

Fiesta Noche Del Rio Huge summer revue underway at Arneson Theater. Performances will includes the Fiesta Noche del Rio cast, including Elizabeth Sanchez-Lopez and Willie "El Curro" Champion. The Fiesta Noche Del Rio, which features the songs and dances of Mexico, Spain, Argentina and Texas in a seven-act outdoor performance, has been held each summer for 50 years. It's considered the longest-running outdoor musical revue of its kind in the U.S.

Presented by the Alamo Kiwanis Club, the show has raised more than $3 million for local children's charities. The summer season runs through Aug. 9. with performances at 8:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Tickets are $5-15. Group and military discounts are available at H-E-B stores. For tickets, call (210) 226-4651 or visit www.fiestanochedelrio.com.

Oscar RodriguezVirtuoso guitarist plays a hot mix of rock, blues, Tex-Mex and more. Grant St. Pizza, 8:30 p.m. Fridays; Pat O'Briens, 3 p.m. Saturdays.

Paula Nelson, George Devore Willie Nelson's daughter and Austin pop guitarist Devore teamup for an acoustic show Tuesday at Josabi's, 17200 Highway 16 N. Helotes, TX 78023 (210) 372-9100. Also July 24 Bleu Edmondson; Aug 2, Mark Mckinney, Skunkweed; Aug 9, Paula Nelson Band; Aug. 16 Ryan Bales Band. www.josabis.com

Main Plaza High Noon Music Series lunch-time music in the Plaza continues Tuesdays through Fridays through August, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. with Main Plaza Conservancy's High Noon Music Series. High Noon Tuesdays and Thursdays features jazz music; mariachi music is showcased on Wednesdays. High Noon Fridays features an eclectic mix of Latin music. Raza en la Plaza - 'People in the Plaza;' series is 7-10 p.m. Fridays-Saturday, through August (except Fridays in July). Also Sunday Tocaditas with Foxy & Rabbit, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Sundays.

Los Camaroneros de Fred Saldaña Solid band plays classic conjunto and occasional blues. 5 p.m. Sundays. Reptilez Sports Bar, 5418 Old Hwy. 90.

Dancing Under the Stars Weekly Thursday night jam session on the patio hosted by Los Hermanos De Leon with special guests who drop in. Regulars include Andy Saenz of the Homies, Salvador "El Pavo" Garcia of Los Pavo Reales, Bene Medina, Coy Serna, Mambo Ibarra, Henry Galvan, Flavio Longoria. Thursdays, Bosmans, 672 Elks @ Zarzamora. Details: myspace. com/bosmanshbk1,

Final Cut Hawaiian Luau, presented by Ladies Auxillary, features versatile band whips up cumbias, Tex-Mex, funk, oldies, and more. VFW Post 76, 10 Tenth St. Saturday, July 26.

La Mafia vs Kumbia All Starz Top artists led respectively by Oscar De La Rosa and Armando Lichtenberger and A.B. Quintanilla III, go 'mano a mano' in huge Battle of the Bands. Central Pavilion Arena/Fairgrounds, 1213 Terrie Shamsie Blvd, Robstown. Aug 2. $20-$25. (361) 387-9000

Cancionero Mexicano Presented by the Hispanic Heritage Society and directed by Cristina Ortega, the event will include Voces de San Antonio and will showcase corridos, rancheras, serenades and more. 4 p.m. Aug. 4. Instituto Cultural de México, 600 HemisFair Plaza Way. $10. (210) 822-3247.

Texas 2008 Music Festival Featuring country, rock, Tex-Mex and more with David Lee Garza, Intocable, Los Lobos, Los Horoscopos de Durango. Labor Day, Aug. 29-Sept.1. Reliant Arena and Eleanor Tinsley Park in Houston. Details: www.txmusicfest.com

Noelia Pop singer from Puerto Rico is on a tour for her new CD "Volverte a Ver," that brings her to Club Rio. Aug. 21.

Tejano Music National Convention Debut in Dallas for three-day conference. Featuring Sunny Sauceda, Jay Perez, Shelly Lares, the Royal Jesters, Michael Salgado, Ruben Ramos and more. Dallas Convention Center, Dallas. Aug. 15-17. www.tejanoticket.com.

Santana Rock guitarist back on the touring trail. Opening is Salvador Santana. Santana's latest CD is "Multi-Dimensional Warrior," due in August. Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Sept. 19.

Latin Grammy Awards Annual awards show recognizes best artists and recordings of the year. Nov. 13. Toyota Center. Houston. Broadcast live on Univision Network. www.grammy.com/Latin/News/

Roger Velasquez: making his mark in latest CD 'Quiero Besarte'

2008-07-19T15:17:19Z

Coming up:
La Mafia vs Kumbia All Starz in 'mano a mano'
Reggaeton shows coming up

In recent years, singer Roger Velasquez & Latin Legends have become one of the most popular funk/blues/rock/oldies/Tex-Mex bands in the city.

Velasquez' latest CD is titled "Quiero Besarte," which was produced by Bob Gallarza.

Like Joe Jama & 100 Proof in the '90s, the Latin Legends have become the band to catch live.

Tight ensemble work, inspiring jams, and infectuous grooves all came together each time Joe Jama and his crew hit the stage. The Latin Legends are certainly not the only band to catch fire on stage, but they are one of the best and most consistent.

Velasquez' latest CD is titled "Quiero Besarte," which was produced by Bob Gallarza

Roger Velasquez & the Legends are playing tonight, Saturday at George's Place.

In a recent interview, Velasquez talked about his CD.

Why did you pick "Querio Besarte'?

"It was done a while back by Adalberto. Once in a while we'll get together, the guys, we're killing time, and we listen to old stuff like that. That song always stayed with me. It was always one of the songs I really, really liked. I'd thought it was the Breed, but no, it wasn't, it was Adalberto with that USA showband. So I thought it would be a good song to bring back. Nobody's ever attempted to do it.

Tell me about the song on the CD titled "La Vida Corta."

"I wrote that song. It's kind of like sitting around the campfire, pisteando, a bunch of vatos talking, telling each other stories, consejos and stuff like that. I brought Sunny Sauceda in on it. He played accordion on 'Quiero Besarte' and 'La Vida Corta.' Chente was hanging around Gilbert's studio, so we put him in there as well on one of the verses, singing a third part.

What about "Lagrimas,"what is it about?

"'Lágrimas,' I wrote for my grandmother, who I dedicated the album to. She's been gone for about three or four years and I just miss her once in a while. That's where that song came from.

What was her name, what do you remember about her?

"Her name was Antonia R. Quintero: Just her unconditional love. No matter what I did in my life, no matter how bad I was, she always had a smile for me."

Some people remember you from your days with the Latin Breed. How is this album the next step iin your career?

"This album is my first solo CD. I planned the whole thing. I put it together. Elizabeth Hernandez from Austin, Texas, was the executive producer on the album. She put up all the money for the album. I've been working with Bob Gallarza for about four years, and done a number of things with him, so I always had the intention of having Bob produce it, and release it under On the Edge Productions. I've been working with him for a while, and we've created a really, really good working relationship, on stage and off, so that's the reason that Bob's producing the album. What I set out to do with this album is attempt to establish myself as a solo artist, rather than a background guy, or one of the guys who sang with the Latin Breed. So Chano Elizondo and Bob Gallarza are distributing it for On the Edge, so I figured that I would have a decent chance, a decent crack at it. In this day and age, it's very hard for a new artist to come out and do something, although I'm not new, I've never done anything as a solo artist."

Roger Velasquez interview Pt II coming

Weekender: Herrera, State Fair, Mazz

2008-07-19T02:24:33Z

Coming up:
La Mafia vs Kumbia All Starz in 'mano a mano'
Roger Velasquez: making his mark in latest CD 'Quiero Besarte'
Reggaeton shows coming up

Weekend is here and the musical menu includes the Hispanic State Fair, Tejano and conjunto shows.

The biggie is of course, the Hispanic State Fair where the lineup will include Jimmy Gonzalez Y Grupo Mazz, Javier Galvan Y Fama, Pochimex, Los Kaballeroz, Grupo Karizzia, Artie V y Grupo Suave, Los De La Cumbia, Grupo La Zorra.

The family fest is scheduled Sunday at Rosedale Park will also offer a carnival, food booths and agues frescas. Proceeds will benefit San Antonio Parks Foundation. Admission is free.

Tejano fans can check out Ramiro Herrera who drops in at Graham Central Station tonight Friday.

Big brass Tex-Mex will be spotlighted at George's Place on Saturday. Roger Velasquez & Latin Legends' latest CD is titled "Quiero Besarte."

Complete details on shows through the weekend and beyond:
Concerts Calendar 7/15: Hispanic Fair, Tejano soul, disco

Premios Juventud top winners: Martin, Camila, Aventura

2008-07-18T16:43:36Z

Coming up:
Weekender: State Fair, Herrera, Mazz
La Mafia vs Kumbia All Starz in 'mano a mano'
Roger Velasquez: making his mark in latest CD 'Quiero Besarte'
Reggaeton shows coming up

Ricky Martin, Wisin y Yandel, Aventura, Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony were among the big winners Thursday night in Miami at the Premios Juventud.

The awards unfolded from the BankUnited Center at the University of Miami and were broadcast live on the Univision Network. Officials presented awards in 29 categories of sports, fashion, music, movies and pop culture.

Reggaeton super-duo Wisin y Yandel took honors "CD to Die For," "My Favorite Video," "Favorite Urban Artist," and "Best Ringtone." Singer Jennifer Lopez grabbed "She's got Style," "Girl of my Dreams," and together with husband Marc Anthony, took "Paparazzi's Favorite Target."

Puerto Rican pop singer Ricky Martin walked away with "My Idol," "What a Hottie," and "He's got Style." Meanwhile, the Dominican bachata group Aventura were named for "I Hear them Everywhere," "My Favorite Concert," and "Favorite Tropical Artist."

In addition, other big winners included Mexican pop group Camila for "Best Ballad" and "Favorite Pop Artist" and teen pop group RBD, with Jowell y Randy, who won "Perfect Combination," and "Most Wanted."

Performers in the TV program included Tito el Bambino, Pedro Fernández, Thalia, Angel y Khriz, Olga Tañón, Tucanes de Tijuana, and Akwid.

One highlight was the tagteam of pop singer Enrique Iglesias and Dominican mega-group Aventura in a preview of their forthcoming 14-city US tour. Tour details: Enrique Iglesias & Aventura tour to hit S.A., Laredo, McAllen

Some Premios Juventud categories:

La Combinación Perfecta (Perfect Combination)
RBD y Jowell y Randy ("Inalcanzable")
Qué Rico Que Se Mueve (Best Moves)
Chayanne
Voz Del Momento (I Hear Them Everywhere)
Aventura

La Más Pegajosa (Catchiest Tune)
"Te Quiero" - Flex
Me Muero Sin Ese CD (CD to Die For)
"Los Extraterrestres" - Wisin y Yandel
Mi Concierto Favorito (My Favorite Concert) Aventura (KOB Tour)
Canción Corta-venas (Best Ballad)
"Todo Cambió" - Camila
Mi Artista Regional Mexicano Favorito Es... (Favorite Regional Mexican
Artist) Alejandro Fernández
Mi Artista Rock Favorito Es... (Favorite Rock Star) Maná
Mi Artista Pop Favorito Es... (Favorite Pop Artist) Camila
Mi Artista Tropical Favorito Es... (Favorite Tropical Artist) Aventura
Mi Artista Urbano Favorito Es... (Favorite Urban Artist) Wisin y Yandel
Mi Video Favorito Es... (Favorite Video) "Sexy Movimiento" (Wisin y Yandel)
Mi Ringtone (Favorite Ringtone) "Yo Te Quiero" - Wisin y Yandel

For the complete list of winners visit: http://www.univision.com
Keyword: Premios Juventud

De La Rosa All-Star tribute CD in final mixing stages

2008-07-16T20:36:29Z

Coming up:
La Mafia vs Kumbia All Starz in 'mano a mano'
Roger Velasquez: making his mark in latest CD 'Quiero Besarte'
Reggaeton shows coming up

Little Joe, R Ramos, R. Herrera, D. Marez, J. Perez, Stefani among stars
Top producers include Flores, Trevino, Ybarra, Wipfli

By RAMIRO BURR

SAN ANTONIO -- Only a month to go before the first-year anniversary of singer/keyboardist Jerry De La Rosa's passing, recording officials are on the final mixing stages of the all-star tribute project.

De La Rosa, a native of Laredo, was an influential keyboardist/arranger whose tenure included stints with Jay Perez, Fandango USA and Los Big Chihuahuas. He passed away at 42 in San Antonio on Aug. 27, 2007 after a lengthy illness.

In a recent marathon mixing session in north San Antonio at Robert Ybarra's Studio Cats recording studio, producers mixed, matched and sequenced the various voices that are on the tribute song "Te Extrañamos Mucho," which was written by award-winning songwriter and fellow Laredoan Humberto Ramon of Luna Llena Publishing.

Included in the list of all stars on the CD are Little Joe, Ruben Ramos, Ramiro Herrera, David Marez, Stefani, Joe Posada, Leslie Lugo, Gary Hobbs and Jay Perez. Also Pete Astudillo and Jimmy Gonzalez courtesy of Freddie Records,

Other participating artists include Elizabeth Brackman, Roger Velasquez, Agnes Torres, Arturo Gutierrez, Eddie Guerrero, Raul Sanchez, Rick Acosta, Jorge Alejandro, Paul Diamante, Jorge Moreno, Pancho Rodriguez, Marcos Orozco, Joey Martinez, Elio Quintanilla, Israel Maldonado, Judi De Leon, and legendary radio DJ and fellow Laredoan "Bird" Rodriguez.

The musicians that played on the song are Robert Ybarra, keyboards/guitars; Joey Sanchez, drums; Guillermo Rodriguez, bass; Mike Guerra, accordion; Joe Posada and Felo Sepulveda, saxophones.

Why does this CD project matter?

In the 58-year history of Tejano music, there have only been two previous all-star projects.

In August 1985, officials produced the historic "Tejanos for Hunger" CD project. It featured many of the stars mentioned above but also now-rare performances by La Mafia, Laura Canales, Mazz, and Jimmy Edward.

Almost 10 years later, on December 1995, Arjons' club owner, Arjon Tabatabai, managed to round up the stars again for the "Canta a La Vida" benefit for the SA Aids Foundation project.

That project featured the participation of Joe Lopez, Jimmy Gonzalez, Emilio, David Lee Garza, Bobby Pulido, Roberto Pulido, Delia Gonzalez, Elsa Garcia, Stephanie Lynn, Little Joe, Ruben Ramos, Hugo Guerrero/Fandango USA, Jay Pérez, Ram Herrera, Rock Orozco, George Rivas, Noemy, Joe Jama, Blanca Velasquez, Amber Rose, Campañas de America, Oscar G, Elida Reyna, Stefani, Nydia Rojas, Joel Nava, Humberto Ramón, comedian Paul Rodriguez and actor Edward James Olmos.

The list of recording producers on the Jerry De La Rosa all-star project includes some of the top names in San Antonio's production circles -- Joe Trevino (Blue Cat Studios), Robert "Bert" Ybarra (Studio Cats), and Kurt Wipfli (for Wipfli Enterprises). Other participating studio engineers also include Richard Rosales, Severo Contreras, Raul Sanchez, Joe Leal, and Guillermo Rodriguez.

Other participating studios include David Langley Studios in Fresno CA, Legends Sound Studios In Corpus Christi, TX, Eli Molina Studio in Kingsville, Tx, Antenna Muzic Studios in Laredo, Texas, MP Recording Studios in Weslaco, Texas, SlackMonster Studio and GSM Discos Studios in San Antonio.

Wipfli also mastered the CD, titled "All-Star Tribute to Jerry De La Rosa."

The Graphic Studio's Jorge Flores served as executive producer. Production coordinators were Chano Elizondo of CE Distribution and producer Bob Gallarza. The CD will be released under the De La Rose Production label, "a long-held dream that Jerry had toward the end," said Flores.

The manufacturing and replication of the CD was donated courtesy by Bharat Mehta of Triaz Digital, Austin, Texas.

Proceeds from the CD sales will go to the De La Rosa family to help cover the considerable medical and funeral expenses incurred by the family last year.

Jesse Castillo of Projes video company, produced the video of the all-star recording session.

The CD and single will be released on Aug.27, 2008. On that same day, a CD release party is tentatively scheduled at a venue still to be determined. Flores said most of the artists that participated in the historic record will be on hand to sign copies of the CD and take photographs with fans.

Longtime radio consultant Danny Garcia (www.dcgvoiceworks.com) and Carmen Duran Garcia will serve as master of ceremonies.

"This is a special project for Jerry because he was such an influential musician, and a friend to everyone," said Flores.

He added that a "a beautiful aspect of this recording is that everyone, from the producers, to the artists, to the technicians donated their time for the cause."

A webpage is being set up to help promote the CD, at www.thegraphicstudio.com. It will include a biography and rare photos of De La Rosa, "a simple, caring individual who touched a lot of lives in music circles," said Flores. The website will also feature lyrics to the tribute song, a list of the artists (in order) on the main track and more details on the different versions of the tune which will be included in the CD.

musicreporter@gmail.com

Jenni Rivera faces lawsuit in stage assault

2008-07-16T20:16:22Z

Coming up:
De La Rosa All-Star CD project nears completion
Roger Velasquez: making his mark in latest CD 'Quiero Besarte'
Reggaeton shows coming up

No surprise with this bit of news.

Banda singer Jenni Rivera may have a lawsuit in her future from a fan who claims the singer insulted and attacked him during a performance in North Carolina.

In this Heylatino.com news item, Univison's El Gorda y La Flaca reported that Rivera thought that Oscar Alexander Paz, the fan, had tossed the beer can that struck her while she was performing.

More details:Jenni Rivera arrested on assault charge

Apparently, Paz ended up being assaulted and he claims Rivera struck him with her microphone.

No news on whether the potential lawsuit will be settled or proceed.

Ironically, Rivera was recently recognized for her "altruist efforts against domestic violence" by Los Angeles non-profit organization Amanecer Community Services, according to miguelrosario.com.

In an interview with a Los Angeles radio station on June 8, the day after the incident, Rivera said, "The only thing I can say is that I'm not very happy about it, but I do take responsibility for what I've done."

Paz later insisted he never threw the beer can, but simply raised his hand hoping to meet the singer.

More Rivera stories:
Jenni Rivera has her faves when it comes to duets

Concerts Calendar 7/15: Hispanic Fair, Tejano soul, disco

2008-07-15T16:23:39Z

Coming up:
Jenni Rivera faces lawsuit in stage assault
De La Rosa All-Star CD project nears completion
Roger Velasquez: making his mark in latest CD 'Quiero Besarte'
Reggaeton shows coming up

Outdoor festival, romantic Tejano and cumbias make up the choices for the weekend.

Hispanic State Fair Annual shin-dig features top bands and artists. The lineup: Jimmy Gonzalez Y Grupo Mazz, Javier Galvan Y Fama, Pochimex, Los Kaballeroz, Grupo Karizzia, Artie V y Grupo Suave, Los De La Cumbia, Grupo La Zorra. Also a carnival, food booths offering turkey legs, hamburgers and agues frescas. Proceeds benefit San Antonio Parks Foundation, Rosedale Park. Free. Sunday, July 20.

Soulstruck Movement Variety band mixes disco, Top 40 and more. Cadillac Bar, 212 S. Flores. Friday, July 18. No cover. Also July 25, Final Cut. Aug. 1, Jesse Deleon/Variety Band; 8/8 Xtremo 4; 8/15, Artie v Y Grupo Suave; 8/22, Pete Ybarra y Fuego; 8/28, Artie V Y Suave, Cadillac Anniversary; 8/29 Red Suace Rules , Mohagany Rush

www.myspace.com/cadillacbar

Roger Velasquez & Latin Legends Tight group offers a wide array of funk, oldies, Tex-Mex and more. Thursdays at Bar on Broadway, 2411 Broadway. Also 7/18, Frio Saloon; 7/19, George's Place; 7/26, Luckey Road Saloon; 8/9, Texas Star Freeport.

Jorge Alejandro y La Paz Top notch variety band plays funk, oldies, Tex-Mex and more. Thursdsay. George's Place, 5214 Blanco Rd. (210) 340-1275. Also Final Cut, Friday; Roger Velasquez, Saturday. George's All Star Band 9 p.m. Sunday. Also George Rivas' birthday will be celebaretd July 30, a Wednesday with Joe Posada.

Ramiro Herrera Tejano crooner brings mix of cumbias and polkas. Friday. Graham Central Station. Also July 25, Desperados; Aug 1. Bobby Pulido

Grupo Maravia Versatile group keep dance floor packed with rancheras, polkas and cumbias. La Movida. Saturday.

Johnny P & the Wiseguy Swing time with this entertaining group. 6 p.m. Sunday as part of the "Swing Factory" Sunday dance/concert series at Blue Bubble Ballroom, 9315 Broadway (just outside the loop). Cover: $5. All ages. 7-8 p.m. complimentary beginner swing Lessons by SASDS. Also, July 27, TBA.

Los Camaroneros de Fred Saldaña Solid band plays classic conjunto and occasional blues. 5 p.m. Sundays. Reptilez Sports Bar, 5418 Old Hwy. 90.

Main Plaza High Noon Music Series lunch-time music in the Plaza continues Tuesdays through Fridays through August, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. with Main Plaza Conservancy's High Noon Music Series. High Noon Tuesdays and Thursdays features jazz music; mariachi music is showcased on Wednesdays. High Noon Fridays features an eclectic mix of Latin music. Raza en la Plaza - 'People in the Plaza;' series is 7-10 p.m. Fridays-Saturday, through August (except Fridays in July). Also Sunday Tocaditas with Foxy & Rabbit, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Sundays.

Flex Red-hot Panamanian singer Flex checks in at Club Rio on July 25. If you haven't heard of Flex you will soon. His pop hit "Te Quiero" is a reggaeton dance party tune. For tickets (210) 403-2582

Oscar Rodriguez Virtuoso guitarist plays a hot mix of rock, blues, Tex-Mex and more. Grant St. Pizza, 8:30 p.m. Fridays; Pat O'Briens, 3 p.m. Saturdays.

Los Tovares Solid Tejano band headlines Lucky Roads, Lytle, Texas. July 25.

Final Cut Hawaiian Luau, presented by Ladies Auxillary, features versatile band whips up cumbias, Tex-Mex, funk, oldies, and more. VFW Post 76, 10 Tenth St. Saturday, July 26.

Noelia Pop singer from Puerto Rico is on a tour for her new CD "Volverte a Ver," that brings her to Club Rio. Aug. 21.

Santana Rock guitarist back on the touring trail. Opening is Salvador Santana. Santana's latest CD is "Multi-Dimensional Warrior," due in August. Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Sept. 19.

Latin Grammy Awards Annual awards show recognizes best artists and recordings of the year. Nov. 13. Toyota Center. Houston. Broadcast live on Univision Network. www.grammy.com/Latin/News/

In frank interview, A.B. Quintanilla III says he's a nice guy

2008-07-14T12:57:22Z

Coming up:
Concerts Calendar 7/14
Roger Velasquez: family connection on new CD

Cumbiamiester A.B. Quintanilla III says he's really a nice guy, he's just misunderstood.

TVnotas USA

As he says "Yo soy buena onda," or "I'm a nice guy."

As most fans know, A.B. may be controversial but he's also been commercially successful. After his sister Selena died in 1995, A.B. formed his Kumbia Kings which became one of the most popular cumbia fusion groups on the scene.

Later on controversy arose again when he and long-time partner Cruz Martinez split. A.B.went on to form the Kumbia All Starz while Cruz formed Super Reyes.

Some time later even more controversy was generated when singer Pee Wee and other bandmembers left the All Stars.

In a recent interview with TVnotas USA/Univision.com he talked about his recent problems and his having to adjust his personality to avoid misunderstandings.

As reported in the Univision story, A.B. "asegura que trata de ya no confiar tanto en la gente y, sobre todo, 'de no hacer bromas frente a las cámaras'."

In the interview he was asked:
A.B., ¿a qué crees que se deba tu imagen escandalosa?
"Me dan mucha pena y tristeza, por ejemplo, los videos que sacó mi ex compañero, (en los cuales se ve a Quintanilla hablando mal de los mexicanos), eso era algo de broma. Lo bueno es que cuando uno se rodea de gente educada aprende mucho y últimamente he cambiado y me he vuelto muy calmado y trato de estar tranquilo".

He said the controversial videos showing him making fun of Mexicans were taken out of context.

¿Se debe a que sufres provocaciones?
"Sí, en algunos casos, por ejemplo, en San Antonio (hace varios meses) supuestamente iba a golpear a un camarógrafo, pero el tipo le estaba diciendo cosas a mi novia (Elizabeth). En ese caso exploté, pero al final pensé: 'Bueno, ni siquiera me voy a poner a su nivel'.
En otra ocasión dijeron que me había peleado con Los Temerarios (porque supuestamente no le habían querido prestar sus instrumentos musicales). Y, sabes, después me los encontré y les ofrecí disculpas y les dije que me había equivocado".

He admitted he was wrong in the incident where he refused to lend his equipment to Los Temerarios.

Dicen que al igual que tu padre tienes un carácter muy fuerte, ¿es cierto?
"Efectivamente, mi papá es fuerte de carácter, y en mi caso, pienso que todo pasa por alguna razón. Yo soy buena onda, si me dan la oportunidad, pero no puedo deshacer todo lo que me ha pasado.
Si pudiera cambiar algunas cosas de mi vida, nunca habría hecho bromas frente a la cámara, lo bueno fue que me hicieron pruebas con detectores de mentiras en la Ciudad de México y Los Ángeles y se demostró que decía la verdad, que se había tratado de una broma".

A..B. admits he has a stong personality like his father, and he's learned to never relax before any cameras.

And for Pee Wee news: Pee Wee to perform at Premios Juventud

Enrique Iglesias & Aventura tour to hit S.A., Laredo, McAllen

2008-07-13T23:29:19Z

Coming up:
A.B. Quintanilla III in 'frank interview'
Roger Velasquez: family connection on new CD

Enrique Iglesias, the king of Spanish pop and Aventura, the kings of bachata, have teamed up for a new tour that will stop in several Texas cities including San Antonio.

The "Kings Tour" is scheduled to stop in at the AT&T Center in San Antonio on Sept.6. The tour will actually kick off the Laredo Entertainment Center on Sept. 4.

The 14-city tour will end on Oct. 5 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Check back, we have more tour photos coming.

Iglesias is coming off a successful tour through Europe and South Africa. His latest CD "UNO: 95/08," has also done well.

Anthony "Romeo" Santos, lead singer of the urban bachata group Aventura, has also been prolific as a songwriter.

He and his group were nominated for the 2008 Billboard Latin Music Awards. They walked away with Hot Latin Song of the Year for "Mi Corazoncito" and Tropical Airplay Song of the Year, Duo Or Group for "Mi Corazoncito."

More details on Billboard LMA: Juanes, Guerra, Rivera among Billboard LMA Winners

"Kings Tour" Schedule:
9/4 Laredo, Laredo Entertainment Center
9/5 Hidalgo, Dodge Arena
9/6 San Antonio, AT&T Center
9/10 Dallas, Nokia Theatre
9/11 El Paso, El Paso County Coliseum
9/13 Las Vegas, Mandalay
9/19 Atlanta, Chastain Park Amphitheatre
9/20 Miami, American Airlines Arena
9/25 Orlando, Amway Arena
9/27 Chicago, Allstate Pavilion
10/2 Uncasville, Mohegan Sun
10/3 Washington Patriot Center
10/4 Atlantic City, Borgata
10/5 East Rutherford, IZOD

Did you see Iglesias or Aventura on their last Texas tour? Send us your photos and/or leave a comment.